During hot weather, monitoring one’s condition is essential to prevent heat-related illness. This is especially true for older adults and people with chronic health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, or bronchial asthma. Cardiologist Dmitry Orlovsky emphasized to Public News Service that staying aware of symptoms can save lives in high-heat situations.
Overheating occurs when the body struggles to cool itself, whether indoors in a stuffy room or outside under the sun. The result can be fatigue and drowsiness that may escalate to headaches and nausea if precautions are ignored. In severe cases, heat illness can progress to confusion and disorientation, and even produce hallucinations or delusions in vulnerable individuals.
Those most at risk are people whose ability to regulate body temperature is impaired. This group includes children, older adults, and individuals with arterial hypertension or diabetes. Cardiovascular conditions such as coronary heart disease, tachycardia, and cardiomyopathy also raise the danger of overheating. People with vegetative neurosis, asthma, or liver disease including cirrhosis or hepatitis face added risk. In addition, pregnant women and individuals who have recently suffered a heart attack or stroke should stay especially cautious in hot conditions.
Alcohol consumption further increases heat-related risks. It is crucial for anyone at risk to cool down properly and to increase fluid intake during heat waves. Doctors stress that staying hydrated and avoiding dehydration helps support heart and circulation under heat stress.
It is worth noting that heat adds extra strain to the heart and blood supply system. For patients with critical conditions, heat can worsen an acute episode. Maintaining a correct eating and drinking routine becomes a simple yet powerful tool to mitigate risk. Alcohol should be avoided, as it can raise blood pressure and trigger hypertensive crises, chest pain, or a heart attack. A balanced diet and steady fluid intake help the body cope with higher temperatures.
Medical guidance also covers practical steps for correctly hydrating and preventing swelling in hot weather. This includes choosing water-rich foods, distributing fluids evenly throughout the day, and recognizing early signs of heat distress. By adopting these habits, individuals can reduce unnecessary stress on the heart and support overall comfort in heat waves.